If you live in a frequently flooded area, keep sandbags, plastic sheets and lumber on hand to protect property. Install check valves in building sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.

Know the elevation of your property in relation to nearby streams and other Waterways, and plan what you will do and where you will go in a flood emergency.

When a flood threatens:

If forced to leave your property and time permits, move essential items to safe ground, fill tanks to keep from floating away and grease immovable machinery.

Store a supply of drinking water in clean bathtubs and in large containers.

Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, floodplains, etc.

During a flood:

Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding.

Even 6 inches of fast moving floodwater can knock you off your feet, and a depth of 2 feet will float your car! Never try to walk, swim or drive through such swift water.

Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road. STOP! Turn around and go another way.

Keep children from playing in floodwaters or near culverts and storm drains.

After a flood:

Boil drinking water before using. If fresh food has come in contact with Floodwaters, throw it out.

Seek necessary medical care at the nearest hospital. Food, clothing, shelter and first aid are available at Red Cross shelters.

Use flashlights, not lanterns or torches, to examine buildings. Flammables may be inside.

Do not handle live electrical equipment in wet areas. Electrical equipment should be checked and dried before being returned to service.